One Day Trip in Lucknow (2024)

Venture on a delightful one day trip to Lucknow, where rich history and vibrant culture await. Explore architectural marvels like Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara, savour the city’s renowned kebabs and biryanis, stroll through the bustling markets of Hazratganj, and immerse yourself in the royal heritage at the Lucknow Residency.

Uttar Pradesh (UP) remained largely unexplored in my travels, and Lucknow had long been on my bucket list. Having heard tales of its rich culture and delectable cuisine from friends hailing from the city, I finally decided to fulfil my curiosity last year. A one-day visit allowed me to immerse myself in the charm and flavours of Lucknow.

PIN for later reference – One Day Trip in Lucknow

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here.

About Lucknow

Lucknow, the capital and a prominent city in the Uttar Pradesh state of Northern India boasts a rich history and architectural splendour. Formerly the capital of the Awadh region, it witnessed control under the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughal Empire. Affectionately termed the City of Nawabs and the City of Kebabs, Lucknow is best explored between October and March when the weather is pleasant and not excessively hot.

Legends About Lucknow

Lucknow’s etymology has several intriguing legends and theories. One tale proposes that the name originates from Lakshmana, Rama’s brother in the Ramayana, who is believed to have had a palace named Lakshmanapuri in the area. The settlement was initially called Lakhanpur in the 11th century, but it eventually evolved into Lucknow.

Another theory traces the name’s evolution from its earlier forms – Lakshmanavati, Lakhanavati, Lakhnauti, to its current iteration, Lucknow.

A third hypothesis connects the name to the Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi.

How to Get to Lucknow?

By Air – Regular flights connect Lucknow to major capital cities, providing the fastest but relatively expensive mode of transportation. My journey with Indigo Airlines from Bangalore incurred a return ticket cost of INR 7889, showcasing the convenience of air travel for reaching Lucknow swiftly.

By Trains and Buses – Cities are well-connected by trains and buses, offering alternative travel options. Secure train bookings through the IRCTC website and book bus tickets effortlessly on the Redbus website. With these accessible platforms, travellers can choose the mode of transportation that best suits their preferences and schedule.

Local Transportation in Lucknow

Uber and Ola taxis provide quick and convenient transportation from the airport in Lucknow. Booking a ride through these services is the fastest way to reach the city, and local taxis are also available at the airport. It’s important to note that some taxi drivers may cancel confirmed bookings. If the vehicle doesn’t move on the Uber/Ola apps, cancel the ride and report it to avoid cancellation fees.

In addition to taxis, auto-rickshaws, cabs, and cycle rickshaws offer local transport options based on the distance. When using these services, it’s advisable to haggle over quoted prices for a more reasonable fare.

Things To See and Do in Lucknow in One Day

Lucknow offers many activities, and a single day hardly does justice to explore its charm. However, personal constraints and reservations about solo travel in the northern part of India, particularly Uttar Pradesh, limited my visit to just one day in the city.

Rumi Darwaaza

As previously noted, the city is renowned for its architectural wonders, and my primary attraction was the Rumi Darwaza. This magnificent gate is believed to be named after the 13th-century Muslim Sufi mystic Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi. Constructed in 1784, the Rumi Darwaza stands tall at about 60 feet (18 meters).

Bara Imambara

A must-visit destination in Lucknow is the Bara Imambara. This expansive complex encompasses a mosque, well-known as Bowli, and the intriguing Bul Bulaiya, a maze. The Indian entrance fee is INR 50 per person, and a guide can be hired for INR 100 per person. Exploring this vast complex, particularly the enchanting Bul Bulaiya, was a delightful experience, making it my favourite spot in Lucknow.

Ambedkar Memorial Park

Situated in Lucknow, the Ambedkar Memorial Park is an expansive complex honouring the legacy of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, the key architect of the Indian Constitution and a prominent social reformer. In 2008, the park was inaugurated by the then Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Mayawati, serving as a tribute to Dr. Ambedkar’s significant contributions to social justice and equality. The central memorial is a grand structure featuring a sizable dome adorned with intricate carvings, housing a museum that meticulously presents the life and accomplishments of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

Walk Around the Old City

I have consistently discovered that the most immersive way to experience any city is by strolling through its streets. Opting to explore the main old city on foot, I absorbed the local culture, engaged with locals, and marvelled at architectural gems. The stark contrast in culture from Bangalore made the experience particularly fascinating.

Note: Exercise caution on certain streets due to cleanliness concerns.
And don’t miss the Buggy Ride for an added adventure.

Food in Lucknow

Renowned for its biryani and kebabs, Lucknow beckons every visitor to savour its delectable culinary offerings. While I regretfully missed the opportunity to try the famous kebabs, I indulged in the Chicken biryani, and it proved to be an absolute delight—flavorful and irresistibly tasty, making my culinary experience in Lucknow truly memorable.

Shopping

Lucknow is renowned for its handicrafts, particularly the exquisite Chikankari work—a delicate form of Indian embroidery known for its stunning appearance. During my visit, I indulged in shopping, acquiring numerous kurtas and dress pieces for my mother and myself. Additionally, Lucknow offers Ittars (perfumes) and Kivam (tobacco products) as notable purchases. For the best and most affordable Chikankari work, seek recommendations from taxi drivers or auto-rickshaw pullers.

Hazratganj

Nestled in the heart of Lucknow, Hazratganj is a lively and iconic shopping and commercial hub celebrated for its vibrant ambience and varied offerings. The district is a shopping haven, hosting an assortment of shops, boutiques, and department stores, drawing both locals and tourists with its blend of traditional and contemporary retail experiences. Dotted with historical and cultural landmarks, such as theatres, colonial-era structures, and statues, Hazratganj also hosts the renowned Ganjing Carnival, a much-anticipated cultural event in the area.

One Day Trip in Lucknow

Embarking on a one-day trip to Lucknow offers a condensed yet enriching experience in this culturally rich city. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Rumi Darwaza, a historical gateway that stands tall as a testament to Lucknow’s architectural grandeur. Adjacent to it, explore the captivating Bara Imambara, a complex featuring a mosque, well, and an intriguing maze known as Bul Bulaiya.

After immersing yourself in history, head to the vibrant markets of Chowk for a taste of Lucknow’s famed Chikankari work and other handicrafts. Don’t forget to indulge in the city’s culinary delights by stopping at a local eatery for Lucknawi biryani or kebabs.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling Hazratganj, Lucknow’s commercial hub, and explore its shops and boutiques.

Cap off your day with a visit to the Ambedkar Memorial Park, an expansive landscaped garden showcasing architectural marvels dedicated to social reformers.

While one day may offer just a glimpse, Lucknow’s charm will undoubtedly leave you yearning for more, promising a memorable day filled with history, culture, and delectable experiences.

Also Read: Bhubaneshwar in One Day

Is Lucknow Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Despite hearing negative aspects about Uttar Pradesh, my experience in Lucknow did not evoke insecurity. I encountered no issues, and all the individuals I interacted with, including taxi drivers and auto-rickshaw pullers, were amiable and amicable. In my opinion, the city appears relatively safe. Nevertheless, as with any location, exercising caution, particularly during nighttime travels, and trusting your instincts is advisable.

Closing Notes

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Lucknow and am eager to revisit this city of remarkable architecture. The multitude of landmarks, each steeped in historical significance, offers a captivating exploration. If you know of any additional points of interest in Lucknow, I would appreciate hearing about them. Feel free to reach out to me at Solopassport@gmail.com.

PIN for later reference – One Day Trip in Lucknow